Ithaca Island Bus & Cruise Tour- Swim stop to Gidaki Beach

Exploring Ithaca becomes effortless with this comprehensive bus and boat tour offered by Kefalonia Excursions. For $71.15 per person, travelers enjoy a full day of sightseeing, including hotel pickup, ferry rides, and a scenic boat cruise that takes in some of the island’s most captivating spots. The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, making it an ideal day trip for those looking to experience the beauty, tranquility, and history of this legendary island without the hassle of planning individual transport.

This tour is particularly appealing for visitors who value guided insights and want to explore Ithaca’s key highlights at a comfortable pace. While the itinerary covers a mix of cultural, natural, and scenic locations, it’s especially suited for travelers eager for a swimming break at Gidaki Beach—a secluded spot accessible only by boat, praised for its crystal-clear waters and peaceful setting.

Key Points

• All-inclusive day trip from Cephalonia with hotel pickup, ferry, and boat cruise
• Visit four main stops: Vathy, Gidaki Beach, Kioni, and Stavros
• Secluded swimming stop at Gidaki Beach, only reachable by boat
• Guided experience with an English-speaking tour guide ensures smooth logistics
• Cost of $71.15 per person offers good value for an 8-hour tour
• Max group size of 49 travelers guarantees a comfortable experience

From Cephalonia to Ithaca: Easy and Convenient Transport

This tour begins early, with pickup from your hotel or meeting point around 7:00 am. The air-conditioned vehicle then takes you directly to the ferry port, where ferry tickets are included for the journey across the Ionian Sea. After approximately 35 minutes, travelers arrive on Ithaca, ready to explore without the stress of organizing separate transportation.

The direct transfer and included ferry tickets streamline what could otherwise be complex logistics, making this trip accessible for most travelers. The group size is limited to 49 participants, helping keep the experience intimate and manageable. Once on the island, the tour guide leads you seamlessly through each stop, sharing insights about Ithaca’s history and culture.

Exploring Vathy: The Heart of Ithaca

The tour’s first stop is Vathy, the island’s vibrant capital. Here, narrow streets wind through a town filled with Venetian architecture and charming stone houses. The scenic harbor is a highlight, framed by lush hills and traditional buildings that evoke a sense of timelessness.

Spending about an hour in Vathy, visitors have the chance to walk at their own pace, soaking in the historic atmosphere and enjoying views of the sea and hillside scenery. The town’s peaceful ambiance invites quiet exploration, and the waterfront area offers plenty of photo opportunities.

Gidaki Beach: Secluded Swim and Nature’s Beauty

One of the key highlights of this tour is the swim stop at Gidaki Beach, a remote cove accessible only by boat. Known for its transparently clear waters and turquoise hues, Gidaki offers a perfect setting to relax and cool off. Surrounded by majestic cliffs and greenery, this pristine beach provides a peaceful escape from crowded tourist spots.

Spending approximately an hour here, travelers can swim, snorkel, or simply unwind while enjoying the breathtaking scenery. The seclusion of Gidaki Beach makes it an ideal spot to connect with nature and enjoy some quiet time in undisturbed beauty.

Kioni Harbour: Charming Village with Stunning Views

Next, the tour visits Kioni, a mountain-built village that looks like a postcard scene. Its whitewashed houses cascade down terraced hillside slopes, creating an amphitheatrical layout. The narrow cobblestone streets meander through the village, leading to a picturesque harbor filled with colorful fishing boats.

This stop is perfect for those looking to wander and admire traditional architecture. Around an hour is spent here, giving plenty of time to enjoy the tranquil harbor atmosphere and take photos of the stunning panoramic views over Polis Bay. It’s a great chance to experience authentic Ithacan life.

Stavros: Panoramic Views and Local Charm

The final visit is to Stavros, a village perched at 110 meters above sea level on the slopes of Neritos Hill. Here, the panoramic views stretch across Polis Bay, offering breathtaking vistas of the coastline and sea. The village’s stone houses and narrow streets reflect traditional architecture, with a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere.

Spending about 30 minutes, visitors can stroll through Stavros or simply enjoy the view. Its elevated position provides a perfect backdrop for memorable photos and tranquil moments before heading back to the ferry port.

The Boat Cruise and Swim Stop in Gidaki Beach

The boat trip is an essential part of this tour, providing access to hidden bays and beaches that can’t be reached on foot. The scenic cruise between Vathy and Kioni adds a relaxing element to the day, with opportunities to enjoy breathtaking coastline views.

The swim stop at Gidaki Beach is especially praised for its crystal-clear waters and privacy. Its tranquil setting offers a perfect break for swimming, snorkeling, or simply soaking in the natural beauty. The boat crew ensures safety and comfort during the stop, making sure everyone gets the chance to enjoy this spectacular location.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

This tour’s pickup and drop-off service makes it accessible for all participants. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the transfer from your accommodation to the port. All ferry tickets are included, so the only additional costs are personal expenses and food or drinks if desired.

The tour guide is an experienced English speaker who shares insights into Ithaca’s attractions, history, and local culture. The group size is capped at 49 travelers, balancing the social aspect with comfort.

The tour departs at 7:00 am, providing a full day of exploration, and returns to the initial meeting point at the end. Cancellation is free if done at least 24 hours in advance, with weather being a factor that might cancel or reschedule the trip.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour

This Ithaca Island Bus & Cruise Tour suits visitors who want to see the island’s top sights without the hassle of organizing transportation themselves. It’s especially ideal for those eager to swim at a secluded beach and enjoy guided commentary about Ithaca’s history and scenery.

Travelers seeking a relaxed pace and beautiful scenery will find this tour offers a satisfying mix of culture, nature, and leisure. It’s perfect for those who appreciate small group experiences with a knowledgeable guide.

The Strengths and Limitations of the Tour

The main strengths include the comprehensive itinerary, including famous landmarks and a swim stop in Gidaki Beach, and the convenience of hotel pickup and ferry inclusion. The guides are praised for their friendly, informative approach, making the day both fun and educational.

A notable limitation is the timing—with only about an hour allocated to each stop, it suits travelers who prefer a quick overview rather than in-depth exploration. Also, since the total duration is about 8 hours, those with limited mobility might find parts of the tour challenging, especially the walking through villages.

Final Thoughts on the Ithaca Bus & Cruise Tour

The Ithaca Island Bus & Cruise Tour offers a balanced and hassle-free way to experience some of the most beautiful parts of Ithaca from Cephalonia. The secluded Gidaki Beach, combined with visits to Vathy, Kioni, and Stavros, paints a picture of an island full of scenic vistas, charming villages, and peaceful beaches.

While the schedule is tight, the guided nature of the tour ensures you see the highlights with expert insights and comfortable logistics. For those eager to combine sightseeing with swimming, and prefer the convenience of a day trip, this tour provides good value and memorable moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off from your hotel or meeting point, making the experience more convenient.

How long does the ferry ride take?
The ferry from Cephalonia to Ithaca lasts approximately 35 minutes, with tickets included in the price.

Can I swim at Gidaki Beach?
Yes, Gidaki Beach is famous for its crystal-clear waters and is a swim stop during the boat cruise, typically lasting about an hour.

What’s the group size?
The tour accommodates up to 49 travelers, ensuring a comfortable group experience.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring personal expenses, food and drinks if desired, and swimwear for Gidaki Beach. Comfortable shoes are recommended for exploring villages.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
The experience is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or rescheduling is offered.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is $71.15 per person, which covers transportation, ferry tickets, boat cruise, and guide services.

Who is the tour provider?
The tour is operated by Kefalonia Excursions, a trusted local provider with positive reviews for their knowledgeable guides and smooth logistics.